You've chosen a simulation that addresses different learning styles—but have you considered different player types? Because how people prefer to play is just as critical as how they prefer to learn.

In this episode of our series on choosing the best business acumen simulation, we explore Richard Bartle's influential taxonomy of player types and why it matters for corporate learning. Discover how Competitors thrive on challenge and head-to-head matchups, Achievers focus relentlessly on metrics and improvement, Collaborators seek meaningful teamwork and shared decision-making, and Explorers love testing new strategies and discovering unfamiliar mechanics.

Here's what most training programs get wrong: they design for only one or two player types. The result? A simulation that energizes Competitors and Achievers while leaving Collaborators and Explorers disengaged and tuned out. Or worse—a guided exploration that bores the achievement-driven participants who crave measurable results and competitive dynamics.

We break down the critical questions you must ask about any simulation: Does it allow genuine team-based decision-making? Can players test different strategies? Are results visible and improvement possible? Is there meaningful competition? Most importantly—does it invite everyone to participate on their own terms?

What You'll Learn:

• How Bartle's four player types translate to business learning environments • Why people shift between player modes depending on context and group dynamics • Design elements that engage all four types simultaneously • The disengagement trap of single-player-type simulations • How to evaluate whether a simulation truly supports diverse play styles

Because playful learning works best when participants can engage in the mode that fits them—or their mood—at any given moment. Great simulation design recognizes this truth and builds it into every round.

Essential for L&D leaders who want training that resonates broadly and drives retention across all participants, not just the competitive few.

Read the full blog post.